Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia to
Launch Perth - Christchurch Flights

Perth Airport has welcomed Air New Zealand and
Virgin Australia’s decision to launch new non-stop flights from
Perth to Christchurch, in December 2013.

Perth Airport Chief
Executive Officer Brad Geatches said the new service between Perth
and Christchurch brings more choice for Western Australian
travellers.

“Christchurch is a fantastic destination and is
now within easy reach for more Western Australians,” said Mr
Greatches.
“Christchurch is the gateway to the south island of New Zealand
and adds to the number of leisure destinations from Perth.”

The increasing number of New
Zealanders coming to Western Australia for work and leisure saw
passenger growth between Perth and New Zealand increase by 20% in 2012.

“We have been working collaboratively with Air
New Zealand, Virgin Australia and Christchurch Airport for more
than a year to establish this new service, and we are delighted
that Western Australians and South Islanders will have this
exciting direct travel opportunity,” added Mr Greatches. “We are confident this will be a successful
route and are pleased with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia’s
commitment to Perth. We look forward to welcoming the new service
in December.”

The new direct service removes the need for
travellers to change flights to reach Christchurch, and reduces
the flying time between the two cities by around three hours.

The
service will operate from Terminal 1 two times per week on a
seasonal basis from December 2013 to April 2014.